Lake Washington Predator Removal

The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking a sole source contractor to perform predator removal services in Lake Washington through a specialized contract awarded to Hickey Bros Research LLC. The primary objectives include removing nonnative species and northern pike minnow using traps, nets, and other specialized techniques to support salmon run rebuilding efforts mandated by a 2023 Legislative Proviso. Key deliverables include conducting comprehensive fish sampling work to identify seasonal distribution and abundance of predator fish species, assessing the benefits of reduced predator populations on juvenile salmon survival, and evaluating recreational fishing rules implemented in 2020 within the Lake Washington basin. The contractor must provide appropriate research vessels and gear, maintain specific insurance requirements, and submit an interim report to legislative committees by December 1, 2025. The contract period runs from February 3, 2025, to June 30, 2025, with capability statements from potential vendors due by January 29, 2025, at 12:00 A.M. PST. The procurement covers multiple jurisdictions across Washington state, with a focused effort on Lake Washington's ecosystem management.

Hickey Bros Research LLC has been selected as the sole source contractor due to their unique qualifications, specialized equipment, and proven track record in fish removal operations, including a successful 2023 pilot project on Lake Washington. No specific set-aside designations or restrictions on responding organizations were identified in the procurement documents. The contract is valued at $250,000, funded through a $700,000 Legislative Proviso in the 2023-2025 biennium, with cost analysis demonstrating significant savings compared to in-house state operations. The contractor must be registered with the Washington State Department of Revenue and the Statewide Vendor Payment System prior to payment requests. Compensation will be payable monthly upon receipt of properly completed invoices. The contractor is required to maintain commercial general liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence, automobile liability insurance of $1,000,000 per occurrence, and marine protection and indemnity coverage of $1,000,000 per occurrence when using vessels. The procurement emphasizes technical expertise and proven capability in managing complex aquatic ecosystem interventions.